Tom Davis new Rhea County election chief

Tom Davis new Rhea County election chief

DAYTON, Tenn. - Tom Davis, a veteran Chattanooga Times Free Press correspondent, has accepted the position as Rhea County's administrator of elections vacated by Theresa Snyder in May.

"(I was) always interested in the political process," Davis said about his decision to apply for the position.

Earlier this year, election officials voted 4-1 calling for Snyder's dismissal or request for her resignation. Deputy Administrator Felicia Mills was appointed to fill in until a new administrator was hired.

Davis said that his salary will start at $50,000 and that he'll obtain state certification within the next few months. At that time, his salary will depend upon the income approved by the state election commission board.

Davis, 62, has worked as the director of public information at Bryan College in Dayton for 21 years and once served as a county commissioner. He said that he "owed a lot to Bryan College," and that he looked forward to the challenge and opportunity that his career change would offer.

Bryan co-worker Blake Hudson, vice president of advancement at the college, said Davis' involvement with local government over the years had made him "well-suited [to do] a great job for the county."

Davis laughed when asked about the career change.

"It's a new time," he said, noting the scripture in Ecclesiastes about everything having its time and purpose.

The next election in Dayton is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24, for a new city commissioner after the vacancy was created when Gary Louallen won the mayoral race in April.

Kimberly McMillian is based in Rhea County. Contact her at kdj424@bellsouth.net.